Approved Scope of Practice Standard

COAG Health Council Communique:

Health Ministers from the Commonwealth, each state and territory and New Zealand met in Perth today and yesterday at the COAG Health Council to discuss a range of national health issues. 

At their March 2019 meeting, Health Ministers received a briefing from the Chair of the Dental Board of Australia about the Board’s proposal to revise the scope of practice registration standard removing the requirement for a structured professional relationship between a dentist and dental therapists, dental hygienists or oral health therapists. Health Ministers had requested that the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) independently assess the patient safety implications and the consumer benefit of the revised scope.

Health Ministers noted the outcomes of ACSQHC’s review which found that there is no evidence that the proposed revised Scope of Practice Registration Standard will have an adverse effect on patient safety and quality. The review also indicated the changes may increase the capacity of the dental workforce and may provide greater access to services and reduced wait times for services for rural and remote communities.

In light of this independent report, Health Ministers approved the revised Scope of Practice Registration Standard.

These changes will be implemented in mid-2020 and members should continue to practice following current Dental Board of Australia Scope of Practice and CPD standards. ADOHTA will continue to communicate with members on how these changes will affect practice and training. 

For more information please refer to:

COAG Health Council Communiques

Dental Board of Australia Registration Standards